For a student, it can be hard to raise a hand in class, to admit not knowing something, to share inner feelings, or to ask for help. These can all be regarded as situations in which one has to face vulnerability (or “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure”, after Brené Brown). Many of us rather avoid such situations, as they seem to threaten our well-being.
However, research shows that learning to face such vulnerabilities can actually benefit well-being. This happens both directly, by not having to keep up appearances, and indirectly, by gathering more support. Given the current worries about student well-being, there could hence be value in incorporating vulnerability activities in our education.
And that is exactly what the Senior Comenius project on Vulnerability in Education is planning to do! The project, awarded to Assistant Professor Professional Learning & Technology Frank Leoné (BMS faculty), officially started Thursday, September 18, with a kick-off in the Ravelijn building.
In the project, Educational Science & Technology MSc, the Creative Technology program (led by Erik Faber), and possibly also the Teacher Education MSc joined forces. Staff and students of these programs will together design, co-create, and validate educational activities that can 1) help students to face and share vulnerabilities and 2) help teachers create the safe environment needed. In this way, the UT takes a pioneering step in giving space for vulnerability in education, all to bolster student (and staff) well-being.
Are you interested, do you have ideas, or do you think the project might also be valuable for your program? Do not hesitate to reach out to frank.leone@utwente.nl.
